A method of detecting one or more free channels in a time-division multiplexed optical signal which may be used for insertion signals in switching nodes of optical communication networks. The method includes sampling successive optical pulses from at least one of said channels, measuring the average optical power of the sampled pulses during a predetermined time period, and generating a detection signal if said average optical power is less than or equal to a predetermined threshold value.
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February 1, 1999
April 29, 2003
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